Pasta with parmesan and baby mozzarella

Pasta with Parmesan and Baby Mozzarella - A Vegetarian Delight

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Dear reader, today I invite you to discover a delicious and simple recipe, perfect for moments when you want to enjoy a savory meal without meat. This pasta with parmesan and baby mozzarella is not only tasty but also very easy to prepare. Moreover, it is a healthy choice, rich in protein and calcium, thanks to the cheeses used. Let’s put on our aprons and get started!

Recipe History
Pasta is a staple food in many cultures, appreciated for centuries. This recipe combines the simplicity of pasta with the richness of cheeses, creating a comforting dish, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Its versatility allows for adaptation based on available ingredients, transforming it into a personalized delicacy.

Ingredients
- 250 g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli – your choice)
- 100 g grated parmesan
- 100 g baby mozzarella (or regular mozzarella, diced)
- 1 medium onion
- 200 ml cream
- 100 g canned tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 200 g feta cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Half a teaspoon of sweet paprika (optional)

Step by Step:

1. Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a tablespoon of salt and bring the water to a boil. Add your preferred pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. They should be slightly firm to the bite to avoid falling apart during baking. Once done, drain well and set aside.

2. Prepare the Filling
Peel and finely chop the onion. In a pan, add the tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the onion until it becomes golden and slightly translucent. If you want extra flavor, add a bit of sweet paprika in the last minutes of sautéing. This step will add a slightly smoky note to your dish.

3. Mix the Cheeses
In a large bowl, combine the grated parmesan, mozzarella, crumbled feta, cream, egg, and canned tomatoes. Mix all the ingredients well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that feta cheese is already salty, so adjust the salt carefully.

4. Assemble the Dish
In a baking dish, place a first layer of pasta, followed by a layer of the cheese mixture. Sprinkle the sautéed onion on top. Continue alternating layers until you finish all the ingredients, making sure to end with a layer of cheese mixture. This will form a delicious crust while baking.

5. Bake the Dish
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top becomes golden and crispy. The aroma that will fill your kitchen during this time is simply irresistible!

6. Serve with Style
Once the pasta is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of color and freshness. This pasta is delicious both warm and cold, so you can enjoy leftovers for lunch or at an informal gathering with friends.

Serving Suggestions
This pasta can be served alongside a crispy green salad, drizzled with a simple dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a fresh fruit cocktail will perfectly complement the meal.

Possible Variations
If you want to add a touch of innovation, you can include vegetables of your choice – zucchini, eggplant, or sautéed spinach, for an extra nutrient boost. Instead of cream, you can experiment with Greek yogurt for a lighter yet equally creamy version.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Certainly! You can opt for whole grain or gluten-free pasta, depending on your preferences.

2. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Although the recipe contains cheeses and eggs, you can replace dairy ingredients with vegan options, such as vegan cheese and an egg substitute.

3. How can I store leftovers?
The pasta keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a pan.

Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is rich in protein due to the cheeses, having a high content of calcium and B vitamins. The feta cheese and cream contribute to healthy fats, while the pasta provides essential carbohydrates for energy.

So, dear cook, I encourage you to try this recipe for pasta with parmesan and baby mozzarella. It is not only a tasty meal but also an opportunity to experiment, enjoy cooking, and share wonderful moments with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!